Page 196 — British Frozen Food Federation (BFFF)

BRITISH FROZEN FOOD FEDERATION HEALTH & SAFETY GROUP

Posted on September 14, 2023January 12, 2026 by Sarah Collison

Our Health & Safety Expert Group met again this week to discuss industry related topics. We welcomed a new member to group, Richard Bufton of Lineage Logistics.

In this meeting, we discussed emerging issues with our group of H&S professionals. Topics covered included the new BFFF assured guidance for Emergency Arrangements and Treatment in the Event of Eye Exposure to Ammonia, Freezer Risk Assessments and Stress Risk Assessments.

We were also joined by our membership primary authority provider, Helen Atkinson of Wakefield Metropolitan District Council who talked us through some emerging issues such as freight containers as a confined space/hazardous atmosphere, drugs & alcohol, driving at work, vehicle load security, welfare at work, congestion charges leading to HGV’s decanting stock just outside of ULEZ areas, energy costs/knock on effects and noise.

Our guest speakers included:

· Neil Wells Latus Health & Kelly Coggon of IDC (Occupational Health Providers) and

· Andy Mee of Tilisafe (Training Software Solutions Providers).

If you are thinking of joining the BFFF Health & Safety Group, want to find out more about the Primary Authority schemes or emerging issues, please contact us for more information simonbrentnall@bfff.co.uk.

IMPORTANT REMINDER: UK INTERNAL MARKET SCHEME TO REPLACE UK TRADER SCHEME FROM 30 SEPTEMBER 2023

Posted on September 13, 2023September 26, 2023 by Sarah Collison

Earlier this year, the Government and the EU agreed the Windsor Framework. The agreement establishes a new scheme, the UK Internal Market Scheme (UKIMS), for the movement of ‘not at risk’ goods into Northern Ireland. This scheme replaces the UK Trader Scheme (UKTS) from 30 September 2023.

With just under one month to go, we would strongly encourage eligible businesses that move goods into Northern Ireland to complete their application for the UK Internal Market Scheme. Government will then endeavour to process applications as quickly as possible.

To support traders further, there is a UKIMS fact sheet which includes a step-by-step video guide on the UK Internal Market application form. This video provides an example walkthrough that helps break down the different information that is required to complete this process successfully. Traders can also refer to the Windsor Framework: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ).

If the new authorisation is not processed by 30 September when the UKTS closes then, if eligible, traders can claim back any duties via the Duty Reimbursement Scheme, or they can claim a Customs Duty waiver. Once traders are authorised, they can continue to declare goods ‘not at risk’ under the UKIMS.

IGD SPECIAL REPORT : REBUILDING ECONOMIC RESILIENCE IN THE UK SUPPLY CHAIN

Posted on September 13, 2023 by Sarah Collison

Last week IGD released its new Viewpoint Special report: Rebuilding economic resilience in the UK food supply chain.

The UK food and grocery supply chain proved to be impressively resilient during the Covid-19 pandemic, however, it has come under severe pressure since then. Some disruptors are already emerging and may manifest over the next 24 months.

In this report IGD’s Economists analyse what’s happening, the key issues impacting the UK food supply chain and the emerging threats.

You can download this free of charge, as the full report, or as one-page executive summary for a quicker view and easily shareable with your colleagues. Both are available to download here.

As always, IGD welcomes your feedback. If you have any questions or would like support, please do get in touch at askigd@igd.com.

You can find out more about IGD Social Impact here.

PARAMOUNT CELEBRATES 35TH BIRTHDAY AND APPOINTS NEW CHAIRMAN

Posted on September 13, 2023September 18, 2023 by Jenny Kenyon

Award-winning food manufacturer Paramount 21 celebrate their 35th birthday this month and are pleased to announce the appointment of Josh Hannaford as the new Chairman of the Board of Directors.

Award-winning Devon-based food manufacturer Paramount 21 celebrate their 35th birthday in September 2023, and are pleased to announce the appointment of Josh Hannaford as the new Chairman of the Board of Directors. Josh started working for Paramount 15 years ago as the Buyer and was promoted to Purchasing Director in 2014. During his time as a director, Josh has been at the forefront of Paramount’s environmental and sustainability agenda, from encouraging the use of sustainably sourced seafood across the range to the removal of black plastic from the business. Josh has also championed Paramount becoming an accredited Living Wage Foundation employer, the voluntary wage rate designed to go further than the government minimum to meet the true cost of living.

Josh takes the reins from founder and Chairman Ali Hannaford, former BFFF President, who started Paramount from scratch in 1988. Commenting on her retirement, Ali noted: “I am positive that Josh will ensure Paramount is well positioned to continue to grow in this fast-paced and challenging world.”

Reflecting on his appointment, Josh commented: “I’m honoured to take on the role of Chairman of Paramount. We have a great team here who really care about making great food! I want to say a big thank you to Ali for all her guidance and support, and I am excited to help shape the direction of our business for the future, continuing to build upon Paramount’s already strong foundations.”

Managing Director Jon Phillips commented, “On behalf of everyone associated with Paramount now and over the past 35 years I would like to thank Ali for having the vision, passion and determination to lead Paramount. There have been some challenges along the way but it has always been fun and Paramount is a great place to work. We are well placed to be successful in the future and I look forward to working with Josh to build on the past and explore new ways to embrace the future and deliver success for our customers, team and suppliers.”

Founded 35 years ago in September 1988, Paramount specialises in manufacturing top quality frozen seafood, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free products for today’s fast-paced global food industry. Paramount won two awards at the BFFF’s 2023 Frozen Food Awards in the Frozen Retail Category: Gold in the “Best New Seasonal/Party” category for Iceland Cathedral City & Branston “Our Cheesy Bites” and a Silver award in the “Retail Best New Starter/Side/Ingredient” category for the Iceland Chiquito Halloumi Cubes.

For more information visit www.paramount21.co.uk, email info@paramont21.co.uk or call 01626 837 650.

SOURDOUGH SPOTLIGHT: EMBRACING THE ESSENCE OF SEPTEMBER

Posted on September 12, 2023September 12, 2023 by Ash Hirani

Step into Sourdough September, an entire month dedicated to celebrating the remarkable world of sourdough. It’s a time to rekindle an appreciation for the intrinsic value, delectable flavors, and healthful qualities of freshly baked sourdough bread.

Sourdough, the heart of sourdough bread, flourishes as a living starter. Nurtured weekly with a blend of water and flour, this mixture gradually transforms into a tangy haven as the harmonious dance of yeast and beneficial bacteria unfolds.

Within Europastry’s realm, a devoted brand, Saint Honore, orbits around the essence of sourdough. The roots of this legacy extend three decades, paying homage to Pere Gallés’ visionary legacy and the unwavering commitment to age-old techniques and meticulous craftsmanship.

Crafting Saint Honore’s exquisite breads adheres to the methodology that elevates bread-making into an art. Each step is infused with meticulous attention, safeguarding the artisanal soul and sumptuous taste that grace every loaf.

The fulcrum of Saint Honore’s bread alchemy lies in its sourdough. Each product enjoys an exclusive sourdough base, meticulously tailored to capture the grain’s quintessence. The path to perfection unwinds through a leisurely fermentation process on specialized wooden boards, sanctioned for use with consumables. Here, time becomes a secret ingredient, an irreplaceable elixir bestowed upon the loaves. It echoes the patience of traditional craftsmen, spanning hours or even days. These precious moments orchestrate the birth of the sourdough starter, its nurturing, the dough’s gentle proofing, and the tender folding that nurtures high hydration, yielding robustness and tenderness. Eventually, this passage of time transmutes into a symphony of flavor, aroma, texture, and hue.

In the realm of Saint Honore’s bread, we revere the tapestry of authentic bread-making history. We tread firmly on our roots while setting our sights on Europastry’s aspirations. Our processes remain steeped in the traditions of French baking, and our loaves stand as monuments to our heritage, sources of immense pride.

Want to know more about Saint Honore and the range we offer, visit the website: Pain Saint Honoré

Or contact our sales agent, Ash Hirani: ahirani@europastry.com

BRECON FOODS SOARS TO NEW HEIGHTS WITH BRC AA CERTIFICATION

Posted on September 12, 2023September 12, 2023 by Divya Srinivasan

Brecon Foods, a renowned name in the frozen food industry, is proud to announce its latest achievement – the prestigious BRC AA Certification.

This accolade is a testament to Brecon’s unwavering commitment to excellence, safety, and industry-leading practices, underscoring its position as a true pioneer in the field.

The British Retail Consortium (BRC) welcomes Brecon Foods into the elite league of BRC-certified companies. BRC certification is more than just a seal of approval; it signifies Brecon’s dedication to meet and exceed client requirements, regulatory obligations and to deliver products that are safe, consistent, and preferred. Fundamental to this is Brecon’s commitment and responsibility to ensure the quality, food safety, security, legality, and authenticity of all products delivered across international markets. For clients and partners alike, BRC certification provides confidence that Brecon Foods delivers on its promise of superior products and impeccable safety protocols.

Why BRC AA Certification Matters

Brecon Foods’ attainment of the BRC AA Certification is a significant milestone for several reasons. It showcases their ongoing dedication to quality control and safety throughout their production processes. The rigorous standards set by the BRC are a benchmark of excellence within the food industry, ensuring that products meet the highest safety and quality criteria.

Advantages of Partnering with Brecon Foods

Brecon Foods has always been committed to customer satisfaction, and this certification takes their commitment to a whole new level. With the BRC AA Certification, clients can expect:

1. Uncompromised Quality: Brecon Foods maintains the highest quality standards in all its frozen food products. The BRC certification reinforces their dedication to delivering only the best to their customers.

2. Enhanced Safety: The BRC AA Certification guarantees that Brecon Foods adheres to stringent safety protocols, ensuring that every product that leaves their facility is safe for consumption.

3. Trust and Confidence: Partnering with a BRC-certified company like Brecon Foods instills trust and confidence in clients, assuring them of a reliable and dependable supply chain.

4. Industry Best Practices: Brecon Foods’ dedication to industry best practices is not just a promise; it’s a certified reality. The BRC certification acknowledges their commitment to consistently meet and exceed industry standards.

Connect with Brecon Foods Today

Are you ready to experience the advantages of partnering with a BRC AA Certified company? Brecon Foods invites you to connect with their dedicated Account Representatives today. They are eager to engage in discussions, answer your questions, and demonstrate how Brecon Foods’ BRC Certification aligns perfectly with your needs.

A few reasons to become a member of BFFF

To find out more about becoming a member call 01400 283 095 or email the team

Join BFFF

Member profile on BFFF website

Free BFFF Member List

Free listing in the annual Member Directory

Access to latest industry news and information

Weekly newsletter, press and media opportunities

Press and media opportunities

Marketing, sponsorship and exhibitor opportunities

Networking via opportunities at BFFF events

Free market data provided by Circana and World Panel

Access to industry specialists

Expert guidance from Technical and Health & Safety teams

Access to Primary Authority schemes and assured advice

H&S Audit Service/Advice

Free access to HR and legal guidance and advice line

Training and Education

Member Benefits

Exclusive Partnership deals on key products and services:

BFFF energy deals and rates
Vypr member deals and introduction
Defib Plus deals
Company Shop – membership
Mentor – MHE training health check

Exclusive access to networking opportunities and events:

Meet the Buyer events (retail & foodservice)
Annual Business Conference with networking dinner
Specialist H&S and Technical Conferences
Special interest groups (packaging, frozen food temperatures)
Annual Lunch
Awards Night

Become a member

Sponsorship Packages

We offer a range of sponsorship opportunities to BFFF members across our events throughout the year, with flexible packages that can be tailored to suit your business objectives.

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what our members say...

Helen Atkinson

Wakefield Council

“What an amazing piece of work and indicative of how BFFF respond to the concerns of their members and make an impact on the whole industry sector.”

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Sysco

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Darta

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Kantar Worldpanel

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Lakeside Food Group Ltd

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Meadow Vale Foods Limited

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Newberry International Produce Ltd

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Place UK Ltd

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Roswel Spedition GMBH

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Seara

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